Want to see more brook trout? So do we!
Many of Vermont’s streams lack a very important habitat feature: wood! In forested streams, wood from nearby trees fall into and become part of the stream. But most waterways were cleared of downed trees and large boulders during large-scale log drives in the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, many of our rivers continue to be dredged to address flooding or to protect improperly sized bridges and culverts.
The truth is, rivers are dynamic systems that are healthiest when natural processes are allowed to occur. That’s why we’ve been working on putting wood back into streams through Strategic Wood Additions (SWA). And this spring, your Vermont Habitat Stamp support will go directly to SWA projects!
Strategically Placed Wood Mimics Mother Nature
Strategically placed wood recreates processes that naturally occur in mature forests. Fallen trees, branches, and roots provide protection from predators and offer refuge during high water events. Wood in streams can also help retain nutrients aquatic organisms feed on and help buffer water velocities during flooding.
Over the last 10 years of SWA efforts, results are showing a reliable doubling of brook trout populations on the 68 miles of streams so far! Want to help trout, wood turtles, and other aquatic life? Join the effort with a Habitat Stamp!
Right now, your 2025 Habitat Stamp donation will help aquatic habitat improvement projects for trout populations and river resiliency. Plus, every dollar is matched!
Building on Success
As we mentioned, these projects consistently show a doubling of brook trout populations where SWA have been implemented. Funds raised today will help improve stream habitat in Big Valley Brook in the Willoughby State Forest, Number Five Brook and Number Six Brook in Norton, Station Brook and tributary in Avery's Gore, and stream flowing through Podunk Wildlife Management Area.
What You Can Do
Join the Vermont Habitat Stamp Community Get your own Habitat Stamp (button above) this spring to support Strategic Wood Addition projects in Vermont. The Habitat Stamp makes an enormous impact on the lasting work we can accomplish because your donation will leverage a federal match, turning a $15 Habitat Stamp into almost $45 of direct impact on the landscape.
Steward for Wildlife with EQIP The Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP) provides information and financial incentives for landowners to manage their land for wildlife. A Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department biologist will walk your land with you and identify ways you can improve wildlife habitat on your property.
Leave it Be As we sometimes say, "mess is best" when it comes to healthy streams. When possible, leave downed trees and naturally occurring materials in place to help keep river banks resilient and provide needed structure and organic material for aquatic organisms.
Fish Vermont Yes, this is your official directive to go fishing! License fees support fisheries conservation and clean water initiatives. Don't forget to explore angling opportunities at a Streambank Management Area (SMA) near you.
We Don’t Do It Alone
Conserving and restoring Vermont's rivers and streams would not be possible without our many conservation partners, landowners, fishing license holders, and Habitat Stamp Community. Thank you.
*Donations of $15.00 and more receive a 4"x5" Habitat Stamp sticker in the mail. A Habitat Stamp is not required to hunt, fish or trap, nor do you have to buy a sporting license to donate.